How to Select the Perfect Wine

The three "P"s of selecting wines are Price, Preference, Pairing. Keep these in mind when visiting your local wine merchant and throw the odds in your favor for picking a winning wine every time.

Price

The price you are willing to pay (or not pay) for a bottle of wine is a key determining factor in selecting a wine that is right for you. Gone are the days when you could only buy a "good" bottle of wine for over $30. In today's market, there are plenty of great wines available for around $15, some for considerably less. So rest assured that you won't have to drop a bundle of money to experiment with various wines. A decent wine merchant will be able to give you plenty of suggestions in your stated price range.

Preference

Ahh, preferences. We all have them, and they often change at a moment's notice, but let them be swayed by what you will be drinking them with or who you will be sharing them with. For example, if you are hosting a happy hour get together, your preferences might lean towards "safe" reds and whites. For people that may not be accustomed to heavier-bodied, heartier wines, give them a break - buy a softer Merlot or Pinot Noir (sometimes referred to as "Starter Reds"). For a white, who doesn't enjoy a refreshing Gewurztraminer?

If you are seeking to experiment with a new varietal, then talking to your local wine merchant about wines, styles, and labels, that you have enjoyed in the past and asking for specific recommendations should provide sufficient direction for another great find.

As for reds, starting with a Gamay, Pinot Noir, for lighter tannins and more forward fruit or Merlot and Zinfandel for a fuller-bodied wine with dense dark fruit.

If you are looking to turn up the complexity meter, then go with a great California Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah (or Shiraz if it's from Australia).

Pairing

If you are looking for a wine specifically to pair with dinner tonight, then take into account what the key ingredients will be. Will it be white or red meat? Will you be using fresh or dried herbs, and what types? Will the dish be spicy or fruit-filled? These questions can play a key role in deciding which wines will pair well with specific entrees.